University of California

University Of California Highlight

The University of California (UC) is a public research university system with ten campuses spread across California. The UC system is well-known for its strong academic programs and commitment to research and innovation. The UC system is one of the largest public university systems in the United States, with about 285,000 students enrolled. The UC campuses provide a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various academic fields, including science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and the arts. The UC system has a long history of generating world-class academics, scholars, and entrepreneurs, and it is a driving force for economic growth and innovation in the state of California.

Campus and Accommodation 

The University of California (UC) comprises 10 campuses, each with its own distinct personality and surroundings. The campuses are spread across California, from the mountains to the coast, and provide a wide range of academic and extracurricular possibilities. Accommodation options range from classic residence halls to apartments and suites on all UC campuses. On-campus housing costs vary depending on the institution, the kind of housing, and the length of stay. Most UC campuses also provide off-campus housing alternatives and assistance to help students find housing. The chart below provides an overview of lodging types and costs for a typical academic year at three UC campuses.

University Of California Global Ranking 

The University of California (UC) consistently ranks among the top universities in the world, according to two main global university ranking systems: the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. In the QS rankings, UC Berkeley and UCLA are frequently the highest-ranked UC schools, with ranks in the top 30 worldwide. In THE rankings, UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego are frequently the highest-ranked UC universities, with ranks in the top 50 worldwide. The rankings are based on several characteristics, including academic reputation, research impact, faculty/student ratios, and worldwide outlook. UC campuses' continuously strong rankings reflect their dedication to academic excellence and global influence.

Top Courses Offered at the University Of California 

The University of California (UC) offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. The following table provides an overview of popular courses offered at UC, along with their annual tuition fees for the 2021-2022 academic year.

University Of California Admission Process 

The University of California (UC) offers a centralized application system, known as the UC Application, for all its undergraduate programs across its ten campuses. The application procedure begins in August, and the deadline for applying for the following autumn term is 30th November. The application price for each campus is $70 for domestic students and $80 for international applicants, which can be paid online with a credit card. 

The UC admission contains personal information, academic history, extracurricular activities, essays, and standardized test scores (optional for the 2022-2023 admission cycle owing to COVID-19). Following the submission of the UC Application, students must additionally provide authentic transcripts from all high schools and universities attended. 

The application process for graduate programs differs depending on campus and program. Students can apply through the program's website or the UC Application for most programs. Graduate application fees vary by program and university. 

Students will get an acceptance decision from each institution after completing the application and the relevant documentation. To secure their seat, approved students must submit a Statement of Intent to Register and a non-refundable payment. Students can only accept admission to one University of California campus.

Documents Required For the University Of California 

The documents required to take admission to the University of California may vary by program and campus but typically include the following:

• Completed UC Application
• Official high school transcripts
• Official college transcripts (if applicable)
• Test scores (SAT, ACT, SAT Subject Tests, AP exams, etc.) - optional for the 2022-2023 application cycle due to COVID-19
• Personal statement essays
• Letters of recommendation (optional for some campuses and programs)
• English proficiency test scores (for international students)
• Application fee payment confirmation
• Immigration documents (for international students)

Exam Requirements for the University Of California 

The University of California (UC) requires applicants to submit standardized test scores as part of their application, but due to COVID-19, test scores are optional for the 2022-2023 application cycle. If applicants choose to submit scores, the following exams are accepted:

• SAT (essay optional): minimum score of 1180 (EBRW+M) for UC eligibility
• ACT (writing optional): minimum composite score of 24 for UC eligibility
• SAT Subject Tests: recommended but not required
• Advanced Placement (AP) Exams: recommended but not required

For English proficiency, UC accepts the following exams:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: minimum score of 80 for UC eligibility
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic: minimum score of 7.0 overall band score for UC eligibility

University Of California Cost Of Attendance 

Undergraduate Course Fees:

Postgraduate Course Fees:

Cost of Living (estimated per year):

Note that the cost of living can vary based on individual choices and circumstances. Therefore, it's important to research and plan when considering the overall cost of attending the University of California.

Available Scholarships for the University Of California 

The University of California offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help students cover the cost of their education. Here are a few notable scholarship opportunities:

• The Regents Scholarship is given to the top 1-2% of entering freshman and transfer students based on academic excellence, leadership, and community service. It covers tuition, fees, lodging, and board for up to four years. 
• Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: This program gives need-based grants to qualified California citizens with a family income of less than $80,000. It covers tuition and fees for up to four years. 
• UC Berkeley Undergraduate Scholarship: This scholarship is given to entering students who have exhibited academic achievement, leadership, and community service. It costs between $8,000 to $32,000 annually and is renewable for up to four years. 
• UC Davis Chancellor's Scholarship: This scholarship is given to incoming students who have exhibited outstanding academic accomplishment, leadership, and community involvement. It covers full tuition and fees for up to four years. 
• UC San Diego Regents grant: This grant is given to incoming students who have exhibited academic distinction and leadership. It covers tuition and fees for up to four years.

Placements at the University Of California 

The University of California provides diverse courses that educate students for various career pathways. Employers value UC graduates, and many have found success in industries such as technology, business, healthcare, education, and others. 

Alums of the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, for example, have gone on to work for top corporations such as Google, Amazon, and Apple. In contrast, alums of the UC San Francisco School of Medicine have become successful doctors and healthcare professionals.

Top USA Universities